A Well-Established Post-Study Work & PR Pathway
Canada offers world-class education combined with an established post-study work and immigration pathway. The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) provides up to 3 years of open work authorization, and Express Entry is a well-known route to Canadian PR. Eligibility and processing times depend on your individual profile.
| 🏫 | Tuition (Undergraduate) | CAD 20,000 – 35,000/year |
| 🎓 | Tuition (Postgraduate) | CAD 18,000 – 40,000/year |
| 🏦 | Proof of Funds (Living Expenses) | CAD 22,895+ for a single applicant (excl. tuition/transport) - GIC is one accepted method |
| 🏠 | Accommodation | CAD 10,000 – 15,000/year |
| 🍽️ | Food & Living | CAD 8,000 – 12,000/year |
| 🏥 | Health Insurance | CAD 600 – 900/year (varies by province) |
International students can work up to 24 hours/week off-campus during academic sessions (updated policy, effective for eligible study permit holders), and full-time during scheduled breaks. After graduation, Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) for up to 3 years. Spouse eligibility for an open work permit depends on your program and permit conditions - check current IRCC rules before applying. Pathway to Express Entry PR after Canadian work experience.
Everything you need to know about studying in Canada
Complete degree → get PGWP → work for 1 year → apply Canadian Experience Class via Express Entry. Many get PR within 6–18 months of starting work.
A GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate) is one accepted way to prove you can support yourself in Canada - funds are typically released to you monthly after arrival. As of September 1, 2025, IRCC requires proof of at least CAD 22,895 in living expenses (excluding tuition and transportation) for a single applicant. This figure is reviewed periodically, so confirm the current amount on the IRCC website before applying.
It depends on your program. Since 2024, spousal open work permit eligibility is generally limited to spouses of students in select programs (e.g. master's degrees of 16+ months, doctoral programs, or certain in-demand fields). Check current IRCC eligibility criteria before applying.
Ontario (Toronto), British Columbia (Vancouver), and Quebec (Montreal) are most popular. Ontario has the most jobs; BC has the best lifestyle; Quebec has lower tuition.
Both offer well-established pathways. Canada's Express Entry is generally faster (often 6–12 months processing) and relies on a points-based system. Australia's SkillSelect system is also points-based, with the Temporary Graduate visa giving time to gain local experience first. The better fit depends on your occupation, points score, and personal goals - not a one-size-fits-all answer for any single nationality.